Is Thai tea different from masala chai?

Yes. Thai tea of Thailand and masala chai of India are different from each other even though they are both made with black tea and have some similar spices and milk products.

First of all, Thai tea is made by steeping black tea and spices, while masala tea is made by boiling them in milk. So, masala tea has a tangier flavor and can feel bitter for some.

Secondly, condensed milk is used in Thai tea but regular milk is in masala tea. So, Thai tea is creamier than masala tea.

Finally, as for the spices, masala tea has ginger and black pepper in addition to the spices used in Thai tea. So, it is more flavorful than Thai tea, but ginger may feel too tangy to drink for some people.

black teas

thai tea recipe

Emine Aslan January 25, 2024
Thai Tea Recipe

Summary: The heat has already started to hit this year and warns of a hot summer again. So, we’ll need cold beverage recipes and start with this refreshing and easy-to-make Thai tea.

Tags: Thai tea

Category:Beverage
Cuisine:Thai
Serving:4
Cook Time:10 minutes
Prep Time:5 minutes
Author:Emine Aslan
Calories: 264

Thai tea is a type of tea popular in Thailand and Southeast Asia. It is usually made from black tea leaves brewed with a blend of spices, such as star anise, tamarind, and cinnamon, sweetened with condensed milk and sugar, and served cold. The final drink is refreshing, sweet, and creamy iced tea with a unique taste that combines the sweetness of the condensed milk with the boldness of the black tea.

Thai tea has recently become a popular international beverage. It is commonly found in Thai restaurants and cafes around the world and is often served alongside spicy Thai dishes to help cool the palate. In Thailand, you can find Thai tea or Cha Yen not only in restaurants and cafes, but also at street food stalls. It is enjoyed by locals and tourists alike throughout the country.

Now, let’s move on to the Thai tea recipe below and enjoy it with your loved ones!

Ingredients

  • 4 cups water, filtered or bottled, if tap water is of poor quality

  • 4 black tea bags (or 4 tablespoons loose black tea leaves)

  • 1 cinnamon stick

  • 4 green cardamom pods

  • 4 whole cloves

  • 1 star anise

  • ½ cup granulated sugar

  • ½ cup sweetened condensed milk

  • ½ cup evaporated milk (unsweetened condensed milk)

  • Ice cubes

Directions

  1. Boil the water.

  2. Add the cinnamon stick, green cardamom pods, cloves, and star anise to a teapot, pour the boiled water over them, and stir to combine.

  3. Let them steep for 5 minutes.

  4. Add the black tea to the teapot and let it steep for an additional 5 minutes.

  5. Strain the tea into a pitcher or large bowl, using a fine-mesh strainer to remove the tea leaves and spices.

  6. Add the sugar to the tea and stir until it is dissolved.

  7. Add the sweetened condensed milk and evaporated milk to the tea and stir until combined.

  8. Let the tea cool to room temperature, then chill in the refrigerator until cold.

  9. After the Thai tea gets cold in the fridge, put ice cubes in tall glasses and pour the tea over them.

  10. Your Thai tea is ready.

  11. Serve it to your loved ones, and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 serving
Amount/​Serving
% Daily Value
Calories per serving
264
Carbs
50.2 grams
18
Fat
5.9 grams
8
Protein
5.4 grams
11
Cholesterol
22 milligrams
7
Sodium
90 milligrams
4
Fiber
0.6 grams
2
Extras
  • RECIPE NOTES FOR THAI TEA:

    If you like your tea sweeter and creamier, you can increase the amount of sugar or condensed milk to your liking in the recipe above.

    The tea is often served over ice and is known for its vibrant orange color. However, this color is given by adding food coloring to the brew, so you may not prefer it.

    Some variations of Thai tea may also include ingredients such as vanilla and coconut milk to enhance the flavor.

    HOW TO SERVE THAI TEA:

    Thai tea is served with ice in a tall glass. It is a refreshing accompaniment to spicy Thai dishes, but you can also enjoy it alone or with snacks and desserts like Thai-style fried bananas, sticky rice with mango, kanom krok, chicken satay, spring rolls, and fried tofu.